It may have happened to you too to see the orange light light up on your car's dashboard. It's the one with the little drawing that looks like a tube with dots. We're talking about the FAP light on, and no, there's no need to panic completely.
The particulate filter, or FAP as everyone calls it, is that device that the modern diesel cars. What is it for? It blocks the polluting particles before they come out of the exhaust pipe.
FAP light on: why?
The FAP light on means one simple thing: the filter is clogged and it can't clean itself anymore. Like when the kitchen hood filter gets filled with grease and stops working.
The main causes are always the same: too many laps in the city, in traffic, at traffic lights. The engine it never reaches the right temperature to make the filter work. Or you always drive slowly, without ever "stretching" the engine a bit.
Other culprits? Thewrong engine oil, malfunctioning sensors, or poor-quality fuel. In short, the filter is more delicate than it seems.
What to do when it turns on
Rule number one: stay calm. A DPF light on doesn't mean your car is going to explode at any moment. In fact, a little "highway therapy" is often all it takes to fix everything.
Take the car and go on the highway for at least 20 minutes. Keep the engine running around 2000-2500 rpm, without overdoing it but not too slowly either. The heat will do its job and burn off all the accumulated particles.
Is the light flashing? Then stop immediately and call the garage. Continuing to drive risks damage the turbo or other expensive components.
How to tell if your filter is clogged
In the workshop they will use a tool called OBD to read the data from the on-board computer. It is a scanner that reveals the filter fill percentage. Above 70% blockage, the control unit automatically blocks any regeneration attempt.
The available solutions
You have three options, from least to most expensive:
- Forced regeneration in the workshop: the mechanic forces the process through the computer. Cost between 70 and 150 euros and takes about an hour.
- Chemical cleaning: the filter is dismantled and cleaned with specific products. More effective than regeneration, it costs between 150 and 350 euros.
- Complete replacement: last resort, when the filter really has to be thrown away. Here we are talking about 800-2000 euros depending on the car model.
Prevention is better than cure
Want to avoid worrying about the DPF light? Follow these practical tips:
- Alternate city driving with a few laps in extra-urbanThe filter requires high temperatures to function properly. Never turn off the engine immediately after it arrives; let it run for a few minutes.
- Always use theengine oil Right, the one that complies with the specifications ACEAOnly buy from reputable distributors and have the filter checked during service.
The DPF light coming on is a common problem, but it can be fixed. In most cases, all it takes is a little attention and a few extra miles on the highway. The important thing is not to ignore the problem and to act promptly.